Our very own Sofronio Vasquez has captured the hearts of millions in the United States with his powerful performances on The Voice USA Season 26. As the first Philippineborn contestant to break into the top 5, Vasquez has made history, showcasing his exceptional vocal skills and inspiring a nation.

Vasquez grew up in the slums of the Philippines, surrounded by music. Despite facing hardships, Vasquez pursued his dreams, initially studying dentistry at the University of the Philippines. However, his true calling remained music.

“I grew up in the slums, the place where I grew up was not ours so anytime, we could have been evicted. All of my neighbors would sing. I grew up with singing around me,” he said

Vasquez’s musical journey gained momentum when he finished third in the special edition of Tawag ng Tanghalan. Although he didn’t make the cut in The Voice Philippines, this setback fueled his determination to succeed.

“I went into the blind audition, but no one turned for me. No one. So, from zero chair, now in America, I got four chairs turned,” he added.

‘The Voice USA’ Season 26 journey

Vasquez’s blind audition of Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down” impressed judges Snoop Dogg, Michael Bublé, Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani, earning him a four-chair turn. He chose Michael Bublé as his coach, citing his admiration for Bublé’s musical style.

Throughout the competition, Vasquez delivered breathtaking renditions:

“The Power of Love” (The Battles): A duet with Aliyah Khaylyn that showcased his vocal range; “Crying” (The Voice Playoffs): A heartfelt rendition of Roy Orbison’s classic hit; “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” (Live Shows): A soul-stirring performance; “If I Can Dream” (Live Shows) A song that captured his journey and aspirations; A Million Dreams” and “Unstoppable” (Finale): Powerful performances that cemented his place in the competition.

First and historic

Michael Bublé praised Vasquez, stating, “If Sofronio wins tomorrow, he’ll be the first Asian to win this competition in America.”

Bublé believes Vasquez’s victory would transcend cultural boundaries. “What made me very emotional was just seeing, you know, like I realize that it’s not just the Philippines. I realize that tomorrow, if Sofronio wins, it will be the first Asian to ever win this kind of singing competition in America. And so he’s not just singing for Filipinos; he’s singing for Malaysians and Indonesians and Chinese, I mean, there’s a bunch of beautiful Asians all over America and the world who, you know, somebody that looks like them has a chance to, to be the winner of the biggest singing show in the world. I would love that for him,” the crooner said. The winner receives $100,000 and a recording contract.

Grateful

Vasquez expressed gratitude to ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime, Vice Ganda and Karylle for their support during difficult times. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring Filipino artists.

“I was in Manila, getting rackets, coaching at ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan.’ I would save my monthly earnings and I would send them to Mindanao,” Vasquez said. “I am so thankful to ABS-CBN because they really helped me. Ate Vice Ganda, Ate Karylle are so supportive of me,” he said.

Sofronio Vasquez’s incredible journey on “The Voice USA Season 26” has inspired millions. His remarkable talent, resilience and dedication serve as a testament to the power of music and the Filipino spirit. Win or lose, Vasquez has already made history, paving the way for future generations of Filipino artists.